Urban expansion of Korhogo City (Côte d’Ivoire) using gis and nocturnal remote sensing

Temporal data series of stable Artificial Lights At Night (ALAN) obtained from sources such as DMSP/OLS and VIIRS/DNB provide valuable insights into the dynamics of urban expansion. This study introduces a novel methodology for characterizing urban boundaries, which combines textural analysis utilizing the Co-occurrence matrix and urban surface delineation employing the Wombling contour detection algorithm. Applying this method to the city of Korhogo in northern Côte d'Ivoire, the findings reveal an irregular and gradual evolution of urban surfaces between 1992 and 2012, with a rate of change of 35 km2. However, starting from 2012, a rapid urbanization process is observed, continuing until 2020, characterized by an evolution rate of approximately 45 km2. Considering the significant urban expansion witnessed in the city of Korhogo, it is imperative to implement appropriate urban management strategies and measures for ecosystem protection.